The Kaohsiung District Court's recent verdict, which grants legal guardianship of seven-year-old Brazilian-Taiwanese boy Iruan Ergui Wu (
One feels saddened every time footage of Iruan is shown on TV parroting the line "I want to stay in Taiwan." He is only a little boy. While his relationship with his Brazilian and Taiwanese families should be closely examined in deciding the issue of guardianship, it is downright cruel to put the child in a position in which he must personally choose one love over another. This is similar to those situations in which divorcing parents sit a child down in front of them and then force him or her to choose between them. The sense of anxiety and guilt the child is left with can leave some very damaging and permanent scars. That feeling is probably amplified in the present case, since Iruan is being asked to do so not only repeatedly, but also publicly.
The truth is, Iruan would probably choose whichever family was near him and taking care of him when asked the question of where he wants to be. Children become especially sensitive and insecure when they lose their parents at an early age. Afraid of losing more loved ones, they would likely do whatever they think will please those love ones at the given moment.
All the public displays of Iruan's "supposed" personal wish to stay in Taiwan are in fact unnecessary. This is because while Iruan's personal wish is certainly a factor to consider, it is not the sole determining criterion of guardianship under the law.
Both families should try their best to refrain from making ugly accusations or negative emotional outbursts against each other in the media or in front of the child. This appeal goes out especially to the Taiwanese family, since Iruan is staying with them, and is therefore more likely to be exposed to such remarks by them. After all, such comments could create unfounded fear and resentment toward his Brazilian family. That would only make it even more difficult for the little boy to readjust to his Brazilian family after his return. Since everyone involved has only the best interest of the little boy at heart, surely no one in his Taiwanese family would want to see that happen.
Therefore, it is perhaps prudent to have the court intervene at this time and order some psychological counseling for Iruan to ensure that he understands how well-loved he is by both of his families, and that he is not to be blamed for all the fights between adults. Otherwise, he will wind up the biggest victim of this entire custody dispute.
Finally, there is discussion that some lawmakers are considering taking Iruan to petition the government to allow the little boy to remain here. But an innocent child must be spared from such a public spectacle. Don't hurt him out of love anymore.
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